By Tara Calihman

Whittier is one of the most established, and most desirable, neighborhoods in town. Its vibrant mix of older single family homes and student housing, combined with the revitalization of East Pearl Street, have made this neighborhood a walker’s dream come true.

History: Located adjacent to Pearl Street, it’s easy to see why early settlers chose to build their houses in this neighborhood. With large tree-lined streets and large Victorian houses to match, there is a friendly neighborhood feeling that dates back to another time. Whittier was originally established in 1859 and Boulder’s history plays a big part in the neighborhood. You can see many designated historic houses and even more that have been fully restored to their original grandeur.

Housing: Although the houses are expensive in this neighborhood, they feel cozier and less showy than those in Mapleton. Interesting architectural details also set Whittier apart from others. Curved windows, slanted rooftops and stone facades are round around every corner. Not to mention some of the neighborhood’s quirky artistic details. There are funky yard sculptures, hand-carved gargoyles and bright house colors that add even more character and charm to the area.

Being close to Downtown Boulder has pushed prices up in this neighborhood, with many houses going for more than a million dollars. But affordable housing can be found on the south side of the neighborhood. That’s where the condos, apartments and university students are located, taking advantage of the close proximity to the University of Colorado campus.

Restaurants & Shopping: You can walk to all that Pearl Street and Downtown Boulder have to offer. Whether it’s a day of shopping, an afternoon tea party at the Dushanbe Tea House or a night of musical entertainment at the Boulder Theater, living in Whittier puts you near the heart of it all.

Family & Fitness: Everyone can enjoy the pedestrian lifestyle that goes along with the Whittier neighborhood. There are bike lanes aplenty and with Pearl Street, the Farmer’s Market and the Spruce Street pool all within easy walking distance, it’s not difficult to make fitness and family fun regular activities.

Schools: Whittier International Elementary (the oldest continuously operated school in the state), Casey Middle and Boulder High.

Quirks: Whittier has it’s share of personality. The Mork & Mindy house is located in this neighborhood, and the weekly Thursday night cruiser ride goes down Spruce, providing a moving parade of bicycles and costumes. One of the only downsides to living in Whittier is the parking situation. If you don’t have a driveway or your own space, it can be a nightmare. Permit parking and hour limitations are strictly enforced.

Major Street Boundaries: Canyon on the South, 26th on the East, Broadway on the West and Bluff on the North